Ischemic myelopathyIschemic myelopathy in dogs is a vascular disease of the spinal cord (myelopathy) caused by a lack of its blood supply (ischemia).

What is an ischemic myelopathy?
Like any other organ, the spinal cord critically relies on a permanent blood supply to bring nutrients necessary for its proper function and remove waste products. Arteries supply defined segments on each side and all along of the spinal cord. Blockage of one of these arteries results in a sudden switch off of the portion of the spinal cord fed by this precise artery.

Although many unusual causes of blockage have been recognised (fragment of tumour, fat), the most common nature of this blockage is a fibrocartilaginous fragment of the intervertebral disc (hence the term fibrocartilaginous embolism often used instead of ischemic myelopathy). Despite many suggested theories, how and why this fragment of intervertebral disc suddenly gets into the spinal cord artery remains unknown.

What are the signs of ischemic myelopathy in dogs ?
Ischemic myelopathy is a common cause of acute paralysis in dogs (particularly large and giant breed of dogs). It is occasionally seen in cats. Depending which portion of spinal cord is affected and whether or not only one side or both sides are concerned by the lack of blood supply, this condition can cause paralysis of one back limb, both back limbs, all four limbs or only one side of the body. Typically, this paralysis has a sudden onset, is not causing any pain and do not worsen with time (at least after the first 24 hours).

How is ischemic myelopathy diagnosed?
Ischemic myelopathy in dogs is often a diagnosis made by exclusion of other causes of acute paralysis (see above). For this purpose, diagnostic tests such as spinal radiographs, myelography and/or MRI scan (see specific fact sheet) are indicated to rule-out conditions causing pressure on the spinal cord (intervertebral disc herniation or spinal fracture/dislocation) that might necessitate surgical treatment. In the majority of animal, these tests of the spinal cord will typically come back as normal in case of ischemic myelopathy.

It is therefore fundamental that the correct portion of the spinal cord is checked before any conclusions are drawn on the absence of abnormality on myelography or MRI scanner. In occasion, swelling of the spinal cord can be detected on myelography or MRI scan (picture MRI scan ischemic nyelopathy).

Definitive diagnosis of ischemic myelopathy and identification of its exact cause can only be made by post-mortem examination of the spinal cord.

Can you treat ischemic myelopathy?
There is no specific treatment for ischemic myelopathy. Nursing cares (physiotherapy, assisted walking, hydrotherapy, adequate bedding to prevent bed sores) are essential for the recovery of the animal.

What is the prognosis of ischemic myelopathy?
Although there is no specific treatment for ischemic myelopathy, most dogs tend to recover within a few weeks pending on the fact that they have retained the ability to feel pain in their feet. In case of complete paralysis, improvement may not be seen until a couple of weeks and some animal may not fully recover.

If you are concerned about the health of your pet you should contact your veterinary surgeon.